Ukraine Switzerland joins coalition for the return of Ukrainian children
On Monday, Switzerland will take part for the first time as a member in a meeting of the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. Until now, Bern has merely observed the work of the coalition.
11.05.2026, 11:54
SDA
"Switzerland has formally informed Ukraine and Canada of its accession," a spokesperson for the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs told the Keystone-SDA news agency on request. Canada and Ukraine launched the coalition in February 2024. 47 states and international organizations belong to the coalition, as it writes on its website.
The meeting will take place later on Monday afternoon in Brussels. Switzerland will be represented by Ambassador Rita Adam, Switzerland's Head of Mission to the European Union (EU), according to a statement from Bern. Until now, Switzerland has regularly attended coalition meetings as an observer. By joining the coalition, the Federal Council is fulfilling a parliamentary mandate.
Around 20,000 children deported
The coalition is aware of just over 20,000 reports of possible deportations and forced relocations of children by Russia, according to the website. 2133 children have been returned to Ukraine from deportation, forced relocation and temporary occupation.
The meeting in Brussels will be led by the EU, Ukraine and Canada, as the EU wrote in advance. In particular, the coalition should promote measures to bring the children back, help them to recover and return to their lives and hold Russia accountable for its "cruel deeds".
